Continuing with our interviews with the protagonists of the NFT ecosystem. On this occasion we spoke with the Spanish photographer and crypto artist Beatriz Urrutia. 

Having studied mathematics, Beatriz embraces photography and finds in it her own way to express herself, creating very unique images loaded with poetry.

On her website she herself says:

I started doing photography because there I found a way to tell things. If there is something that is clear to me, it is that nobody has given me anything, I don’t come from a family of photographers from whom I was able to learn, everything was a series of circumstances that have led me to where I am now.

I started doing photography because there I found a way to tell things. I spent two whole months without talking to anyone, not my sister, not my friends, not my family… I was dead inside, so photography saved me in those moments, especially when I needed to communicate and I «couldn’t». Since then I have created a bond with my camera and It has never left me.

Without further ado, we leave you with our guest, our dear friend Beatriz Urrutia.

Phani: Beatriz, tell me how your photographic projects were born and developed?

Beatriz Urrutia: My primary objective with photography is to convey a message, to evoke a feeling in the viewer that is similar to the one I experienced, telling stories, capturing moments and emotions that might otherwise be lost to time. It’s a medium that allows me to express myself in ways that words simply can’t. This is the driving force behind all my projects.

Most of my pieces stand alone and do not belong to any collection. This is because the moment I take the photograph and what I experience in that moment is what inspires me. It’s not just about capturing the perfect shot, but about capturing a moment that speaks to me and can communicate something meaningful to the viewer. I could be in the presence of the most stunning landscape, but if it doesn’t evoke any emotion within me, it will not be a part of any of my projects.

On occasion, I find myself taking a photograph simply because I see within it a good opportunity to craft a story. It’s like inventing a tale and sharing it with the viewer. This creative process was particularly evident in my «Ghost Ship Memories» collection, where I captured images of abandoned ships and used them to tell a unique story that they might have experienced while they were useful out at sea.

PH: Tell me about your experience with photography, since when did you embrace photography as a medium of expression? Why photography and not another medium?

BU: I wasn’t born into a family of photographers who could teach me. Rather, it’s been a series of circumstances that have led me to where I am today. This path has been my own.

I got into photography because I found it to be a powerful way to communicate my thoughts and feelings. There was a period of my life when I went through a tough time and spent two entire months without speaking to anyone – not my sister, not my friends, not even my family. I was emotionally numb and felt like I couldn’t connect with anyone.

Photography became a lifeline for me during that time. It allowed me to express myself and communicate in a way that I couldn’t through words. Through the lens of my camera, I found a voice that I had lost, and it helped me find a way to connect with the world again. It allowed me to tell stories and express myself in a way that nothing else could. Since then I have created a bond with my camera and It has never left me.

I don’t usually classify the type of photography I do in any field. I think that for anyone who develops creative work, the moment you put a label on it, you are cutting off possibilities. Creativity is about breaking down boundaries, and putting a label on my work feels limiting. By leaving things open and undefined, I’m able to continue to explore and evolve as a photographer. 

Drawing has been a passion of mine since I was a child. I still have piles of old drawings tucked away in boxes, along with my own sketchbook. But as much as I love drawing, photography has become my preferred medium for capturing the world around me. 

PH: Of all your photographic projects to date, which represents a before and after in your career, and why?

BU: As of now, I haven’t had yet a photography project that has left a distinct mark on my work and changed me as an artist. While I’ve worked on several projects over the years, each one has been a stepping stone in my journey as a photographer, leading me to new places and exposing me to different ideas and techniques.

I believe that every project I have undertaken has taught me something valuable and contributed to my growth as an artist. I’ve learned to appreciate the process of photography and the creative journey that each project takes me on, rather than focusing solely on the end result.

For me, photography is not about achieving a specific goal or creating a project that will define me as an artist. Instead, it is a continuous journey of exploration and discovery, a way to express my vision and connect with the world around me. While I may not have found the one project that has changed me forever, I continue to seek out new opportunities and experiences that will help me grow and evolve as a photographer.

PH: What is photography for you?

BU: A way to tell things. It’s a creative outlet that allows me to express myself and share my unique perspective with others. Through photography, I can explore the world around me, see things in a different way, and connect with people on a deeper level. For me, photography is a means of self-expression, a way to document the world around us, and a powerful tool for communication. For me, photography is a passion that brings joy, beauty, and meaning to my life.

PH: In your work there is a lot of poetry, in particular, I consider that many of your works are visual poems, tell me about these links between your images and poetry.

BU: Thank you for noticing the poetic elements in my photography. For me, photography and poetry are intimately connected. In many ways, I see my photographs as visual poems – they’re not just pictures, but they’re also expressions of my own thoughts and feelings, and of the world as I see it. Like a poet does, I use metaphors, symbolism, and other literary devices to accompany my images, inviting the viewer to look deeper and explore their own emotional response to the image.

PH: Who are your favorite authors and how have they marked you?

BU: Although I have read many books throughout my life, I wouldn’t consider myself a voracious reader. I’ve always been drawn to horror, fantasy, and the unknown, and in that genre, Stephen King is the author that stands out to me. I believe that I initially began reading his books because of his writing style, which tends to leave the ending open to interpretation and allows the reader’s imagination to run wild. As I delved deeper into his works, I became fascinated by his ability to weave complex stories with relatable characters that grapple with the unknown or supernatural. One of King’s works that particularly captured my attention was «Insomnia,» which centers around a character’s struggle with sleeplessness, hallucinations, and visions. I found myself drawn to the book’s exploration of the human mind and the way in which it can affect our perception of reality.

I have always been intrigued by the vastness of the universe and its mysteries. I’ve always wondered if there’s life on planet Earth, why couldn’t there be life in any other galaxy? This curiosity, combined with my love for horror, led me to read Communion by Whitley Strieber.

A few years ago, a close friend recommended to me to read «A Million Little Pieces» by James Frey because I was going through a tough time. He suggested it because the book is about a man’s journey (James Frey) to recovery and overcoming addiction. The raw honesty and vivid portrayal of the main character’s struggles really resonated with me, and I found myself unable to put the book down. It’s a powerful and inspiring tale of redemption that I would recommend to anyone who is going through a tough time.

As you can see, I have a strong inclination towards mystery and fantasy books. I enjoy letting my imagination run wild and pondering on the possibilities of what could be. Who knows, perhaps some of these stories may even hold a grain of truth.

PH: Well Beatriz, because we are talking about good books, I want to recommend to you some books that would change many aspects in how you see the world until now, these are:  Man’s search for meaning by Victor Frankl, Evolve your brain by Dr. Joe Dispenza and Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins. 

PH: Beatriz, what are your main sources of inspiration?

BU: My main source of inspiration has always been music. I simply cannot imagine a world devoid of melodies. I don’t remember a single moment in my life where music was not present. In fact I even studied my math degree with music in the background. Music is one of the most effective mediums for me to evoke emotions, and it significantly impacts my mood and creativity. Certain songs can even evoke specific images and emotions. Many years ago, I used to bring my MP3 player when I went out to take photographs, using it to create a sense of energy or block out external noise while I pressed the shutter button. It is like a soundtrack for capturing moments. At times, the lyrics or the message of a song inspires me to create an image that reflects a similar message or complements the song’s emotion. For example, a melancholic song inspires me to take photos with darker and more somber tones, while a happy song inspires me to snap shots with bright and vibrant colors. I always have music playing in the background when I’m editing my photographs.

As an interesting note, I had to stop using my MP3 player when I was 20 years old because of hearing loss in my left ear. It was one of the most traumatic moments of my life, and it was also a moment when I contemplated not existing. Since music is my primary source of inspiration, going from listening in «stereo» mode to «mono» mode was a hard blow. Over time, I adapted, and even though I still listen to music in «mono,» I can enjoy it once more.

PH: But what kind of music do you hear? some particular style as you prefer?

BU: I’ve always been drawn to the raw power and emotion of rock and metal music. There’s something about the heavy riffs, pounding drums, and soaring vocals that just speaks to me on a deeplevel. Whether I’m feeling angry, sad, or just need to blow off some steam, I can always turn to rock and metal to help me channel those emotions in a healthy way. It’s a genre that’s not afraid to be loud, intense, and in-your-face, and I love that about it.

Within rock and metal, there are so many different subgenres and styles that it’s hard to pick just one favorite. I enjoy rock bands like Guns and Roses, Silverchair (In my opinión I think Daniel Johns is one of the best composers), Pearl Jam, Linkin Park, 30 Seconds to Mars, …  When it comes to metal, I’m a big fan of Metallica, Architects, Bring me the Horizon, Bad Omens, Being as an Ocean, … At the same time, I’m always on the lookout for new and emerging bands that are pushing the boundaries of what rock and metal can be, like The World Alive, Project Vela, Nerv.

Going to concerts and festivals and being surrounded by like-minded people who share your passion for music is an incredible feeling. It’s a reminder that no matter how different we may seem on the surface, music has the power to bring us together and create a sense of unity and belonging. I’ve had the privilege of traveling all over the world to attend concerts. From small, intimate venues to massive stadiums, I’ve experienced the energy and excitement of live music in so many different settings. It’s been an incredible journey, and I feel grateful for all the memories and experiences that music has brought into my life.

It’s a little sad to think that I may never go to another concert again due to my hearing loss. Going to concerts was my escape, where I could leave all my problems behind for a few hours and sing at the top of my lungs.

Whether I’m at a concert, blasting music in my car, or just chilling at home, I know that rock and metal will always have a special place in my heart.

PH: Regarding your influences, who are the artists that have accompanied you throughout your career? In what ways have they influenced you?

BU: Ansel Adams with photography in black and white. As a photographer, I’m deeply inspired by his work. His ability to capture the natural beauty of the American West has had a profound impact on me. I fight to emulate his ability to create emotionally powerful images through careful attention to detail and a deep appreciation for the natural world. While I still have a lot to learn before I can take photos like him, I enjoy setting challenges for myself and striving to improve my skills.

Eliot Porter’s pioneering work in color nature photography has been a significant source of inspiration for me. His ability to capture the intricate details and subtle beauty of the natural world in vivid color has left a lasting impression on my own approach to photography. Someday, I would like to have his artistic vision and his unwavering commitment to capturing the essence of nature in all its glory.

I’m currently reading about Edward Weston and how he created those close-up images of rocks, shells, and vegetables. His strong emphasis on form and texture inspires me to try out that new style.

PH: What do you believe in? What do you love? And what are you afraid of?

BU: I strongly believe in living in the present moment and making the most out of life. We can never be certain about what the future holds, so it’s crucial to enjoy every single moment we have. Sadly, many people waste their time by putting things off and saying, «I’ll do it later.» It’s only when something unexpected happens that they realize how much precious time they have wasted.

Moreover, I firmly believe in staying true to oneself and being authentic. Each of us is unique, and we should embrace our differences instead of trying to fit into someone else’s mold. Life is too short to pretend to be someone we’re not. By being true to ourselves, we can live a life that is fulfilling and meaningful.

What I love? I have a deep affection for nature and mountains. Solitude is something I relish. It may have made me a little less social, but I see the world around me day by day and it’s clear that rapid change is needed, yet never seems to arrive. The mountains never fail to leave me speechless, and I feel free and transported to a different world when I’m among them. And then there’s my sister – I love her with every fiber of my being. She’s been the one constant in my life, always there for me during the tough times and the joyous ones. Without her, I’m not sure where I’d be today.

Afraid of? without a doubt, fear of heights. I suffer from acrophobia, and although I don’t have vertigo, I have a panic when I’m in open and aerial spaces at high altitudes. Ironically, it’s where I like to be the most because I love the feeling of freedom that being on top of a cliff, mountain, etc. gives me. But my body reacts inexplicably. Still, I keep going up to high and aerial places hoping that it will pass someday. I don’t allow this kind of thing to stop me from doing what I really enjoy.

Another thing that terrifies me is public speaking. This is one of the reasons why I don’t participate in Twitter Spaces, and it’s also why I’m not a teacher. Just imagining having to explain a subject in front of a bunch of people watching me makes me shake and sweat.

PH: I have seen that you have dabbled in the use of AI to develop your latest works, tell me about this experience.

BU: Although many photographers are against using AI, I see it as another tool to express or convey emotions. Can’t a photographer also be a painter and use a brush to express themselves? This tool allows me to create things that I couldn’t achieve through photography alone and that exist only in my mind. For example, my collection «Anatomy of a Soul» explores the connection between some of the body’s major organs and emotions. Through photography, I can’t capture neurons or photograph a brain, lungs, etc., and using roses to symbolize the organs and important elements, and white petals to represent other structures, I can convey my message in a unique and impactful way.

PH: Since when did you enter and what drives you to enter the NFT ecosystem? Tell me about your NFT journey.

BU: I had never heard of it before. However, getting into the world of cryptocurrencies a few months earlier led me to discover it. I saw it as a fantastic opportunity to showcase my photography to a wider audience.  At that time, there were some marketplaces, the ones I knew were Opensea and Foundation. I aimed to publish on Foundation, but it was an invite-only platform at the time. I spent several weeks attempting to attract attention to my work to secure an invitation. Eventually, someone noticed my artwork and invited me in. While I had also tried Opensea, I didn’t like the interface and saw fewer photographers using the platform. Thus, in June 2021, I minted my first NFT. It took until August before I made my first sale. However, soon after, I made another sale to the same collector, which led to many more sales. I had no one to turn to for guidance since nobody in my area knew what NFTs were. However, my perseverance paid off, and now my friends are aware of the technology as well.

Digital art is the future. However, as with any new form of art, there is still much to learn about it. As digital art becomes more popular and more valuable, there is a need to learn how to value it correctly. The traditional methods of valuing art, such as considering the artist’s history, technique, and the materials used, do not always apply to digital art. With digital art, there are new factors to consider, such as the uniqueness of the piece, the number of copies available, and the technological expertise required to create it.

PH: Beatriz, how has your experience been with the different NFT marketplaces? Which ones have you worked with and do you feel most comfortable with?

BU: My work is currently published on four platforms: Opensea, Foundation, Makersplace, and Nifty Gateway. While I have received invitations to feature my work on other platforms, such as MintMarketPlace, I am currently awaiting approval to become a Publisher on Nifty Gateway.

Foundation has a great user interface, but they tend to promote the same established artists rather than showcasing new, talented artists with great pieces. I am particularly drawn to Manifold because the artist retains control over all aspects of their work. I have minted all of my pieces on Manifold and have even burned my «Jewels of Andalucía» collection from Opensea to ensure that it remains in my own contract. Many collectors only value artwork that has been minted on Manifold, which is one of the reasons why I have chosen it to mint all my pieces.

PH: Of all the blockchains available to host NFTs, which ones have you worked with and why?

BU: For now, my NFT artwork has only been published on two blockchains – Ethereum and Tezos. I find Ethereum to be the most established and widely recognized blockchain for NFTs, and many of the NFT marketplaces are built on top of Ethereum. I have also experimented with publishing on Tezos, which is another blockchain that has gained some traction in the NFT world due to its lower transaction fees and environmental impact.

However, I am also curious about exploring other blockchains such as Solana, which has become increasingly popular among NFT collectors and artists in recent months.

PH: Tell me about your experience with the different crypto art collectors, any emblematic names?

BU: All of my collectors are important to me because each of them believe in me and my work. However, I must admit that it can be challenging to communicate with some of them.

I have a special appreciation for Jamison Dove who believed in me from the beginning and introduced me to others in the space when I had only been in the NFT world for a few months.

On the other hand, I’m incredibly grateful to have Mark Kelly in my life who has been such a strong supporter of my work. Mark has not only invested in my art, but has also provided me with invaluable feedback and guidance throughout my career. Their unwavering belief in my abilities and vision has been a constant source of motivation and inspiration for me, and I feel honored to have such a dedicated and passionate collector in my corner.

Another of my collectors who has had a significant impact on my NFT journey is DrY. Not only has supported my art by collecting my pieces, but we have also developed a close friendship over time. What I appreciate most about him is their genuine interest in my work and their willingness to support me in any way he can. He is always willing to share my art with their network and has helped me reach a wider audience.

That being said, I believe that every collector brings their own unique perspective and value to the NFT ecosystem, and I try to approach each interaction with an open mind and a willingness to learn.  Ultimately, I believe that the success of the crypto art market depends on the trust and collaboration between artists, collectors, and platforms, and I feel grateful to be a part of such a vibrant and dynamic community.

PH: Facing the NFT ecosystem, what would you change or what would you improve?

BU: Certainly, and for me the main improvement would be to support underrepresented artists and provide access to resources and opportunities for artists from marginalized backgrounds. Lowering the high fees associated with minting and trading NFTs would be another. An artist who barely makes sales would find it impossible to mint NFTs to continue showcasing their art.

Another issue that needs to be fixed in the NFT market is the problem of plagiarism and copyright infringement. Artists and collectors should be encouraged to respect intellectual property rights and take measures to prevent the unauthorized use and distribution of copyrighted material. Platforms should improve the implementation of stronger verification processes and help artists to protect their works.

PH: In your opinion, what are the best strategies for artists to receive viability in the NFT ecosystem?

BU: I’ll try to answer this question without causing too much commotion. Let’s see. It’s evident that engaging with the NFT community on Twitter is crucial for artists. Building relationships with other artists, participating in online forums, and attending virtual events are all essential ways to showcase their work, gain valuable feedback, and reach a wider audience.

Artists should experiment with different formats and styles, and create high-quality, unique work because The NFT market is highly competitive. Artists who explore different formats and styles, experiment with new techniques and mediums could set themselves apart from the rest and attract attention from collectors.

Collaborating with established collectors is another way to gain exposure and build a following, as collectors can help promote an artist’s work to their own networks and provide valuable feedback and insights.

However, all of the aforementioned strategies may prove futile if the «big players» in the industry do not give you a chance and welcome you into their circle. You may have the most incredible pieces in the world, thousands of followers, and participate in online forums and events, but it may not amount to much. Behind the scenes is where the real movement happens and where artists are chosen to be the next big artist and receive widespread support. If you’re lucky, congratulations. If not, keep fighting until it’s your turn.

Nevertheless, there are small but mighty collectors who will truly support and be there for you, despite being overlooked by many. These collectors are the ones who can make a big difference in an artist’s journey.

PH: How important is it for you to freeze the metadata of your NFTs?

BU: I think one of the coolest things about NFTs is that when you freeze their metadata, you’re basically locking in important information about the NFT, like its name, description, and where it comes from. This makes sure that the information about the NFT stays reliable and doesn’t change, which is important for collectors because they want to make sure their NFTs are real and valuable.

It’s really amazing to think that once an NFT is «frozen» on the blockchain, it stays there forever, and future generations can explore all the art that has been published in the past. That’s why I think NFTs are so special – they’re immortal!

PH: What is art for you?

BU: For me, art is a way to express myself on a personal level, to communicate my innermost thoughts, feelings, and experiences through visual images. It’s about using my creativity to explore the world around me, to ask questions, to challenge assumptions, and to push boundaries. Every piece of art I create is an extension of myself, a reflection of my perspective on the world and my place in it.

If those who take the time to examine my work closely and connect it with the description of each piece, they gain insight into how I perceive and represent the world, and the feelings and thoughts that inspire my creations. They can gain a deeper understanding of my creative process, my inspirations, and the emotions that drive me to create.  In essence, by experiencing my art, people can gain a deeper understanding of who I am as a person, without ever having had a conversation with me beforehand.

PH: How would you define a successful crypto artist?

BU: Before I answer this question, I want to make it clear that my response will reflect my own opinions regarding the qualities that a successful crypto artist should possess in this field, as opposed to what may be commonly perceived.

I see a successful crypto artist as someone who achieves a high level of recognition and success within the digital art space. This recognition should be based on their consistent ability to produce high-quality artwork that resonates with their audience and showcases their UNIQUE creative style and vision. This should be seen through their ability to consistently sell their work for a fair price, to be committed to engaging with their audience and contributing to the wider creative community through collaborations, exhibitions, and other initiatives. They should be constantly demonstrating their willingness to take risks and explore new frontiers in the medium, and avoiding copying what’s currently most popular and selling the most.

PH: Who has supported you throughout your NFT journey?

BU: This is a difficult question to answer because I’m not sure if I can recall everyone. However, the one person who has been my constant support since the beginning is my sister, Ana M. Urrutia. She was there from the start when I first expressed my interest in entering the NFT space. At that time, I was going through a tough emotional period and was in need of something to fill my life, and she was there for me. Being in the NFT space is challenging, and it’s easy to get discouraged when your efforts don’t seem to yield results. Nevertheless, she is always there to lift me up and celebrate my victories.

The next person who is impossible to forget is my first collector, Jeong Mo. I will always be grateful to him for believing in my work from the beginning and taking a chance on me. He owns one of my most cherished works, “Last Night on Earth”.

Jamison Dove is another person I cannot forget, as he took a significant chance on me by collecting three of my pieces. I have a vivid memory of waking up on Christmas Day to see his bids and a thoughtful message, hoping to bring some joy to my holiday season. It was a kind and generous gesture that I will always appreciate.

Mark Kelly has become a true friend to me, more than just a collector of my art. His unwavering support, shown through his acquisition of several of my pieces and his genuine interest in me and my work, gives me the strength to keep going. Mark is passionate about Andalusia, the region where I live, and I look forward to the day when I can welcome him to this beautiful land and show him the wonders of Cabo de Gata. I truly appreciate his friendship and support, and am honored to have him as a part of my journey in the NFT art world.

DrY is more than just a collector of my art pieces. He’s been an unwavering supporter of my work since the beginning and has become a dear friend of mine. I cannot thank him enough for believing in me as an artist and for his continual support of my work. Not only does he collect my art pieces, but he also makes me laugh whenever he can. I am grateful to have him as a friend and a collector.

Beyond these four people, I’m also grateful for the many others who have become dear friends – like Doug, a fellow collector who always takes time to chat and show he cares, and Yang0s, the funniest person in the space (hands down!). And of course, there are my space friends, who know exactly who they are and have been a constant source of support and camaraderie.

PH: What would you recommend to existing artists and those entering the NFT ecosystem?

BU: If I had to offer advice to both seasoned and new artists in the NFT space, I would caution them that not everything they see is what it seems. The rules of the NFT art world are similar to those of the traditional art world. It’s not just about having talent; it’s also about having the right network and connections.

Although I believe that NFTs will play a significant role in the future of art, I acknowledge that the current system is flawed. To make a positive impact in this space, it’s essential for genuine art collectors to enter the NFT world, individuals who have a true appreciation for art, rather than those who follow popular trends. At present, there is too much speculation going on.

A year ago, I believed that if I worked hard enough and persevered, I could succeed in the NFT world based solely on the quality of my art. However, I have come to realize that success in this space is not only about talent, but also about being part of the right network and having the necessary connections to reach influential figures.

This realization has been disappointing, and I find myself questioning the fairness of it all. It’s a harsh reality to accept that, no matter how talented you are, you may not succeed if you are not part of the right circles. The current trend is to buy popular art from artists in the spotlight. But, what about the plethora of exceptionally talented artists whose work remains in the shadows because they haven’t been given the chance to shine? It’s a sad reality.

I would tell artists that they should refuse to compromise their artistic identity to copy others just because their work is selling well. It’s important to stay true to your artistic vision and the creativity that flows within you. Even if you don’t become influential or well-known, if you are here for the art, you should be fulfilled with staying true to yourself in a world where many artists lose their unique identity.

We are very grateful to our friend and guest Beatriz Urrutia, who shared with us her experiences as a photographer and crypto artist. Many doubts were clarified about the NFT ecosystem.